Imperial Commander on march to Haydock

Imperial Commander remains on course to make his return from injury in the Betfair Chase at Haydock after delighting connections since returning to work last month.

The 2010 Cheltenham Gold Cup hero has been sidelined by a leg injury since being pulled up in the Prestbury Park showpiece in March of last year.

However, trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies welcomed him back to his Naunton yard a little under three weeks ago and the early signs are positive.

Speaking on www.imperial-horseracing.com, part-owner Ian Robinson said: “Without wishing to tempt fate we couldn’t be happier with the progress of Imperial Commander.

“Richard Bevis, his full-time companion and work rider, reports he is getting a really nice feel from him, and his first piece of work was everything we could have hoped for.

“His daily cantering and work routines are being supplemented with sessions in the swimming pool, which are developing his fitness without placing strain on his limbs. All being well we are still on course for Haydock and the Betfair Chase.”